The Checkers Popular Song Ranking [2026]

Fate (SADAME)Chekkāzu29rank/position

Fate (SADAME)

It’s a single released by The Checkers in March 1990, and it was used as the commercial song for the Mazda Familia.

It reached No.

2 on the Oricon weekly chart.

A distinctive feature is the unique readings of kanji used in the lyrics.

Jukebox SentimentalChekkāzu30rank/position

Jukebox Sentimental

The Checkers burst onto the scene like a comet in the 1980s and became a social phenomenon.

They actually debuted as idols, but during their indie days they were a skilled band rooted in rockabilly and doo-wop.

This particular song is, amazingly, an a cappella doo-wop number.

Its beautiful choral work is deeply moving and resonates in the heart.

Dengeki lookin’ & shockin’Chekkāzu31rank/position

Dengeki lookin’ & shockin’

This song is also included as a B-side, but since it was used as an insert song in a drama, I imagine quite a few people have actually heard it.

For a Checkers number, it has a pretty rock ’n’ roll feel, and the opening guitar gives it a great flavor.

Blue RainChekkāzu32rank/position

The Checkers “Blue Rain” MV

Blue Rain, the 15th single released by The Checkers in 1987.

Fans will likely find it especially nostalgic.

Perhaps because it was their first overseas recording, done in London, the track is enveloped in a sound that feels like cold, dry air seeping into your skin.

On gloomy rainy days, you sometimes just want to rely on someone, don’t you? In the end, it was me who was being consoled from my sadness… Naoyuki’s wistful, deeply emotive saxophone—echoing the sound of the rain and the aching emotions— is absolutely irresistible.

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How’re you doing,Guys?Chekkāzu33rank/position

The Checkers LIVE 1992 “How’re you doing, Guys?”

It’s a passionate song filled with fiery emotion.

The lyrics, which sing about the push-and-pull of romance and bold advances, leave a strong impression.

Included on The Checkers’ album “I HAVE A DREAM,” the track was released in June 1991.

It was also used as the theme song for Fuji TV’s Monday 9 p.m.

drama “Let’s Go to School!,” and has been loved by many.

It’s the perfect song for those troubled by love or ready to take a daring step.

Listening to this work packed with The Checkers’ charm is sure to give you courage.

OH!! POPSTARChekkāzu34rank/position

The Checkers ~ OH!! POP STAR ~.mp4

This is one of the rare early Checkers songs that doesn’t include saxophone.

Since Naoyuki Fujii’s sax is such an iconic part of The Checkers’ sound, this track sparked mixed reactions at the time.

But I think for this kind of Group Sounds-style tune, leaving out the sax was the right call.

I love the lyrics—the world they create is incredibly cool.

Present for YouChekkāzu35rank/position

The Checkers LIVE 1992 “Present for You”

A heartrending love song where winter scenes and tender feelings melt together has been born.

This Checkers track, released in November 1992 as their final single, was also used as the ending theme for Fuji TV’s “Time 3.” Its gentle melody—perfect for the growing chill of the season—and its wistful lyrics about a beloved seep into the heart.

Weaving in winter motifs like the biting wind and falling snow, it sings of longing for a lover who never shows up to a rendezvous, evoking the bittersweetness of love that everyone has felt.

A heartwarming song to play on a winter night spent with someone special.